Security Guard Convicted for Chilling Plot Against Holly Willoughby
A 37-year-old security guard, Gavin Plumb, has been found guilty of plotting to kidnap, rape, and murder TV presenter Holly Willoughby, who was hosting This Morning at the time. Chelmsford Crown Court jurors unanimously convicted Plumb of soliciting murder and inciting rape and kidnap.
Obsessed Stalker’s Disturbing Plans Uncovered
Plumb, obsessed with Willoughby, showed shock and sorrow as the verdict was read but was visibly emotional and distressed when taken away. The court revealed he had previous convictions for attempted kidnap and false imprisonment.
Since December 2021, Plumb had been involved in graphic online chats about attacking Willoughby and other celebrities. He shared deepfake porn images and photos of her home, even discussing taking time off work to carry out his sinister plan.
Undercover Sting Leads to Arrest
An undercover US police officer infiltrated a Kik messenger group called “Abduct Lovers,” where Plumb detailed his chilling plot. He planned to break into Willoughby’s home, use chloroform to subdue her and her husband, kidnap her, and commit repeated acts of rape. Disturbingly, he even showed a video of his “kidnap kit.”
Acting on the officer’s tip-off, UK police and the FBI raided Plumb’s Essex home, arresting him. During the arrest, captured on video, Plumb admitted his obsession, calling Willoughby a fantasy.
Judge Warns: Plumb a Dangerous Threat
The judge slammed Plumb as a grave danger to society. In a victim impact statement, Willoughby spoke of the deep fear and disturbance caused by the plot. She praised law enforcement for preventing the attack and urged vigilance to stop similar threats in future.
Though Plumb’s solicitor plans to appeal, claiming no real intent behind the messages, the jury deemed his obsession and detailed plans a serious threat to Willoughby and her family.
